Horses as mirrors
-
Bioenergetic resononance
Research documents that horses’ electromagnetic fields calm human nervous systems, creating physiological harmony that supports emotional regulation.
-
Positive Psychology
Our entire approach - from horse training to human development - is built on positive reinforcement principles. Efforts are celebrated, strengths are recognized, and learning occurs through affirmation and encouragement for both horse and human.
-
Mindful partnerships
Horses have no narratives. They live completely in the present and accept everything as it is. This forces participants to develop authentic presence, moving beyond the mental distractions that often diminish emotional well-being.
-
Honest Biofeedback
As prey animals surviving by reading environmental changes through all senses, horses provide immediate, authentic feedback about our emotional state. They sense heart rate and respiratory patterns from a distance, responding only to our presence. If we're anxious, their behavior becomes anxious. If we're calm, their body language reflects that peace. This creates powerful learning about emotional regulation and its impact on relationships.
Our Program
Our 12-week RISE curriculum (Resilience → Identity → Strengths → Empowerment) combines evidence-based equine learning, positive psychology, and trauma-informed practices. Girls work with horses trained through positive reinforcement methods, building emotional regulation skills, a sense of authenticity, self-awareness, and unshakeable confidence.
Resilience
Develop emotional regulation skills using positive psychology interventions
Build basic confidence with horses through strengths identification
Establish safety and belonging in the group through positive relationship building
Identity
Explore personal values and interests through positive psychology assessments
Understand individual character strengths and signature strengths
Build authentic self-expression skills through horse partnerships
Strengths
Identify and develop signature strengths through evidence-based practices
Learn to leverage strengths in challenging situations using positive psychology research
Build confidence in leadership abilities through strengths application
empowerment
Develop action plans for personal goals using positive psychology goal-setting research
Learn advocacy and leadership skills through strengths-based approaches
Plan ongoing community engagement leveraging signature strengths for meaning and purpose
